Passing of a Newcastle United legend | OneFootball

Sad to hear about the passing of a Toon legend at the weekend, Willie McFaul was a top goalkeeper and fantastic servant to Newcastle United and a remarkable person.

I met Willie a few times at football talk-ins, which were mainly organised by Bill Gibbs.

Willie was always obliging for a photo. If he could, a few words.

He always was generous with his time.

There was however one evening that stood out for me and my mate Barry Parr, it was again arranged by Bill Gibbs, at King St Club North Shields. A lot of Newcastle legends were there to honour into the hall of fame hallelujah hallelujah John Tudor. A great night was had by all, loved the stories and the banter from the ex-players on the stage.

As the stories were concluding and people starting to leave the club, Willie McFaul came past the table me and Barry were sat at, he stopped and asked me and Barry if we had enjoyed ourselves. We both stood up to shake the great man’s hand.

Willie smiled and spoke to us both, as if he had known us for years.

He asked us how long we had been fans? I said since 1965, Barry replied Fairs Cup year 1969.

Willie asked both of us about the experiences we’d had following our club through the years. He even apologised that the team could not bring the FC Cup back to Newcastle, we mentioned the games we went to that year 1974.

Me and Barry must have been with Willie for 10 minutes when someone came over from Willie’s table and said; “Willie there’s a pint on the table for you,”

Willie thanked the man. Me and Barry knew this was the cue for Willie to go, we were about to thank him for his time and leave our conversation, but we were both gobsmacked when Willie said; “Look lads, I see him loads and I love to meet proper fans of this club, I’m enjoying listening to you both. Tell me why you both love this club and sticking to your club when times have been bad?”

Willie then told us about what Newcastle United means to him, the people that made him have the passion for the club and will always have. Willie praised us for always being there for wor club and said that it will always be the supporters that will keep the club going and that one day, will be successful, That this is why Newcastle United are the best supported team and a very special football club.

Willie must have gave me and Barry at least 20 minutes of his time, something me and my mate will never forget.

Willie McFaul, a brilliant goalkeeper, marvellous servant to Newcastle United, a true gentleman and legend, never to be forgotten by many.